The Power Saving Bonus Community Outreach Program has helped more than 50,000 Victorians minimise their energy costs and submit an application for the $250 payment in just three months.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the significant milestone in helping Victorians access the valuable cost-of-living support payment and advice, and thanked Community Outreach Partners.

The Community Outreach Program supports households who have no internet or are experiencing vulnerability to apply for the $250 Power Saving Bonus. It provides access to services with over-the-phone support and in-person support at more than 300 sites statewide, including 159 regional sites.

The program is delivered with trusted community and not-for-profit organisations that also provide advice on ways to reduce household energy bills. Three quarters of households who applied through the Community Outreach Program received assistance on applicable energy concessions, finding better energy offers and hardship support.

Community Outreach Partners include Anglicare Victoria, Bendigo Community Health Services, Brotherhood of St Laurence and their partners GV Community Energy and Uniting, Community Information & Support Victoria, Consumer Action Law Centre, Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria, Good Shepherd, State Trustees and Neighbourhood Houses Victoria.

Tailored energy affordability support is also being delivered to residents of Melbourne public high-rise estates.

More than 1.5 million households have applied for the $250 Power Saving Bonus since the current fourth round of the program opened on March 24.

Households experiencing difficulty paying their energy bills can also access the Victorian Government’s Energy Assistance Program, a free service connecting them with one-on-one assistance. The $3.75 million initiative helps Victorians struggling with power bills to apply for eligible grants and concessions, find and switch to better offers.

To access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, visit the Victorian Energy Compare website at compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832. To speak to an Energy Assistance Program advocate, call 1800 161 215.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“We understand Victorians are under cost-of-living pressure right now and are so pleased 50,000 community members have been able to access the $250 Power Saving Bonus through our Community Outreach Program.”

“It is vital Victorians from all walks of life get the support they need. We’re also helping Victorians get the best energy deals and assistance to access applicable concessions through the Energy Assistance Program.”

Quote attributable to Member for Pascoe Vale Anthony Cianflone

“The outreach program is so important for local community members to know they have the support and assistance they need to get the best deal on their power bills and access our Power Saving Bonus.”